"I Not Crying this Time"

Daddy Post: Here are a couple of pictures from our annual trip to see the Macy's Santa in the old downtown Meier & Frank Building. Ruby was in much better spirits this year and was actually excited to see Santa. She is slowly grasping his role though as a gift giver. I think she may have confused him for a christ-like faith healer though because the first thing she told him was that she has an owiie on her shin. Willa took it all in stride and actually became quite bashful which is a new behavior for her. Even though the picture doesn't show it she will tuck her chin down while turning away from eye contact with "strangers". This is followed by a coy smile and glance from the bosom of whomever is holding her. She also gave this treatment to cousin Sue during our monthly family brunch at Elmer's. It's impossible not to melt once you see her do it.

Turkeys

Daddy Post: Here are some pics from our recent(?) trip to Lincoln City for Thanksgiving with Grandpa Bill and Nana Jan. We forgot the camera so these were culled from my iphone. As you can see it is typical Oregon coast weather, but that didn't prevent us and the girls from enjoying great outdoors.

Naughty & Nice

Daddy Post:Ruby and Willa have both been gearing up for Christmas this year. Ruby is still managing her post-Halloween addiction to candy as is clearly represented in the provided photos. Occasional withdrawal symptoms include tantrums and whining. If she keeps it up she may very well get her own TV episode on A&E's Intervention. Her demanding nature aside Ruby has been a real joy to be around as she is rapidly learning and communicating in a variety of new ways. Willa has been a real joy as of late as well. We've finally weaned her off of bottles. This has improved her appetite for real food greatly and she's also sleeping uninterrupted through the night which is a huge plus to ourselves. She isn't fully walking by herself, but she has begun taking those very first steps. Part of me says, "Slow Down!" but in actuality I'm real excited for both of them to become more autonomous.